Gillen Introduces Bipartisan Legislation to Extend Temporary Protected Status for Haitians
WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congresswoman Laura Gillen (NY-04) released the following statement on the introduction of H.R. 1689, a bill to require the Secretary of Homeland Security to designate Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haitian nationals in the United States. Gillen is leading this bipartisan bill alongside Republican Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17) and Haiti Caucus Co-Chair Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20).
“The Administration’s abrupt, unfounded decision to end Temporary Protected Status for Haitians will have a devastating impact on Long Island,” said Congresswoman Laura Gillen (NY-04). “Our neighbors, who have been thoroughly vetted and contribute to our economy and our community, now face being sent back to certain, life-threatening danger. I’m thankful to my House colleagues for their bipartisan support on this crucial priority.”
“Many Haitians have sought refuge in my district as the security environment in Haiti has spiraled out of control. Given the ongoing violence and instability in Haiti, extending TPS is both a necessity and a humanitarian imperative. I’m proud to work with Congresswoman Gillen to ensure the U.S. upholds its commitment to the Haitian people during this crisis,” said Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17).
“The elimination of TPS for eligible Haitians will have a detrimental ripple effect on our economy, unleashing turmoil and creating pain throughout our country,” said Haiti Caucus Co-Chair Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20). “Alongside my colleagues, I’m leading this bipartisan push to designate TPS for Haitians because it will provide necessary relief for those fleeing chaos and protect South Florida’s workforce.”
H.R. 1689 would:
- Direct the Secretary of Homeland Security to extend TPS protections for Haitian nationals 18 months past the Administration’s current end date of August 3rd, 2025